The annual September survey by the Faroe Bank shows that there is still a substantial amount of cod, although the catch was lower than in recent years.
Most cod are usually over 80 cm, but this year researchers also found many mid-sized fish between 60 and 70 cm. This suggests that new year classes are entering the stock. However, the cod were leaner than in earlier years when food was more scarce.
Haddock in large numbers
Haddock dominated the survey. The research vessel Jákup Sverri found unusually high volumes, though most were small fish.
Scientists note that the haddock condition was also below average. The survey confirms a long-term trend where haddock thrive on the Faroe Bank.
Rare catch and diet checks
Among the more unusual findings was a single red gurnard, rarely seen in these waters. Stomach checks showed cod fed on sand eels and crustaceans, while haddock ate worms, brittle stars, and small crabs.
Bottom water temperature ranged between 9 and 11 °C. In total, the survey hauled 51 tonnes of fish in 29 one-hour trawl stations. Haddock made up by far the largest share, followed by cod, saithe, and rabbit fish.
The survey provides essential data for managing the Faroese fish stocks and will guide future advice to authorities and industry.